If you are reading this, it means that you or a loved one has been wrongfully terminated from their job. In such circumstances, hiring a wrongful termination attorney can be a challenge.
Here are all the essential qualities to consider to make your journey of hiring a wrongful termination lawyer easier.
1. Expertise in the Subject Matter
Do not hire the first lawyer who is interested in providing you with legal counsel. You must always ensure that they have experience in dealing with similar claims.
Experience is the most important thing you must consider while hiring a wrongful termination lawyer. The more experience a wrongful termination lawyer has, the better they will be able to assist you with your problem.
In addition to imparting your wrongful termination lawyer with the necessary information, experience also empowers them to stay updated on federal and local laws on the subject matter. This can empower them to come up with the best strategies to help you.
2. Promising Track Record
Just because a lawyer has a decade of experience dealing with wrongful termination cases does not instantly make them an ideal professional for you. You must also consider their track record before signing a contract.
A wrongful termination lawyer can claim that they have been dealing with wrongful termination cases for years, but that does not make them great. Reviewing their track record will reveal their success rate, bringing you a step closer to making a decision.
While reviewing a wrongful termination attorney’s track record, you must ensure that you consider their experience with litigation as well. Although many wrongful termination cases are settled out of court, being prepared for exceptional circumstances can always help you.
3. Good Communication Skills
Good communication skills of an attorney can be determined even during your first consultation with the attorney you are considering hiring. The way they address you, explain concepts, and answer your queries matters a lot.
Communication is key to ensuring the success of any attorney-client relationship. If your lawyer does not seem empathetic or approachable, do not consider it a detail that you can work with. Remember, legal proceedings pertaining to wrongful termination can take a long time, and you must prioritize your peace of mind.
An attorney’s effective communication skills do not only ensure your comfort. These skills also ensure that your lawyer will be able to communicate with your employer, jury, and judge with ease if the circumstances arise.
4. Reliable Negotiation Skills
When people hire a wrongful termination attorney in Colorado or any other part of the world, they trust them with a lot more than commonly perceived. They do not only help you find justice at the moment but also shape the future of your employment. Most of the benefits they can offer you are based on their negotiation skills.
Since most wrongful termination cases are resolved through negotiation, you cannot hire an attorney who is not a master of this skill. These skills can be the key to settling your matters outside court. And even if circumstances demand a trial, your lawyer will be able to litigate on your behalf efficiently.
5. Empathetic Conduct
Whether you saw your termination coming or it happened unexpectedly, the train of being wrongfully terminated can take a toll on even the strongest among us. In such circumstances, you want the people around you to understand your struggles. You can also expect the same from your wrongful termination attorney.
An attorney who demonstrates empathy and understanding can make the legal process stress-free for you. Professional attorneys recognize the personal and sensitive nature of your case. Hence, they treat your case with sensitivity and respect.
6. Reliable Resources
The best lawyers do not help their clients based on their experience and knowledge alone. They also have access to several resources that can help you strengthen your claim. The stronger network a lawyer has, the better they can help you.
In addition to being resourceful themselves, they should be able to build your case by leveraging several resources. They can produce expert witnesses, get you in touch with government agencies, and document the damages to streamline the process.
7. Client Centeredness
Your wrongful termination lawyer must always have your best interest in mind. Helping to get you justice must be their first priority. Their dedication to helping you must be visible in the way they listen to your needs and create a strategy.
When your attorney keeps your best interest at heart, you will naturally feel comfortable partnering up with them. If they do not have your best interest in regard, they may not be able to get you the justice you seek.
8. Reputation among Clients and Peers
Another important quality you must seek in your wrongful termination attorney is their reputation among their peers and past clients. If other people did not have a good experience with them, your expectations should not be any different.
You must start by considering your lawyer’s reputation among their peers. If they have a strong standing with the local bar association, you can consider it a good sign. You must also look into their professional background to see if there are any disciplinary actions or complaints you must know about.
You can also ask the wrong termination attorney you are considering hiring to share their testimonials and read their reviews. These elements can also be a signifier that the lawyer you hire will provide you with exceptional services.
9. Transparent Fee Structure
Lastly, professional lawyers understand the importance of transparency in establishing a strong relationship with their clients. If they fail to maintain transparency, especially in matters such as the fees for their services, you will not feel ready to trust them fully.
It is always recommended to discuss fees and payment structures upfront with your attorney. This simple step can help you avoid misunderstandings down the lane. You must also ask whether they charge per hour or offer their services on a contingency basis. This way, you will be able to make informed decisions with full confidence.